San Francisco 49ers guard Joshua Garnett appeared again on the team's Wednesday injury report. He missed his third-straight practice after sustaining what has been described as a minor knee injury during Saturday's practice. That is not good news for someone who is fighting for the starting right guard job and maybe even a roster spot.
Head coach Kyle Shanahan told reporters on Wednesday that Garnett's continued absence was even a little surprising to him. Another player who figures to be in the mix for the starting guard job is Jonathan Cooper, who was activated off of the physically unable to perform list on Tuesday.
"I'd like those two to get out there," Shanahan said. "It's tough to make this team and do it if you're not out there.
"I was a little surprised Garnett didn't make it today. I'd be more surprised if he's not out there tomorrow.
"Coop's really day-to-day. We just put him in individual (drills). I think today was his second day of individual in a row. That will probably continue this week and see if he's ready for practice next week after an entire day off."
Garnett's and Cooper's absences have given others, like Mike Person and Erik Magnuson, opportunities to receive reps. With both taking advantage of the extra work, it would be in Garnett's and Cooper's best interests to get onto the practice field as quickly as possible.
"We'll see who our guy is there, but hopefully those guys can get out there so they have a chance for it to be them," Shanahan said.
Center Weston Richburg was a significant free agent addition for the 49ers this offseason. He has been everything Shanahan hoped he would be.
"He gives us a huge advantage there in the run game just reaching shades and things like that," Shanahan said. "He's been great in protection. This is his second time going through our install, which are about done. He's been great, and I expect him to continue to get better."